McLouth goes on DL, prospect Souza called up

WASHINGTON -- The Nationals called up outfielder Steven Souza Jr. on Monday and placed outfielder Nate McLouth on the 15-day disabled list because of inflammation in his right shoulder.

Souza, 25, is having a tremendous season, hitting .354 with 18 home runs and 72 RBIs for Triple-A Syracuse. The Chiefs were playing Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Sunday when Souza was taken out in the first inning.

Souza -- Washington's No. 5 prospect -- more than likely will come off the bench and may get an occasional start. McLouth injured his shoulder making a diving play in a 7-6 loss to the Marlins on July 28.

McLouth, who signed a two-year deal in the offseason, is hitting .173 with one home run and seven RBIs.